“Do you like it?” John asked. His tone was laced with anxiety. “I know it was a bit of a drive.”

Zack kissed him so hard, his lips stung. John lurched against the car but miraculously managed to hold them both up. He started to pull away and ask a question, but Zack dragged him back in, kissing him senseless.

When he finally let go, they were both gasping for breath.

“So,” John panted, “I take it you’re pleased?”

“This is one of my favorite places on earth,” Zack replied with conviction. “My parents took us once when we were kids and then never brought us back. They always said it was too far to drive from our house in Montebello, which is kind of true. I’ve never had the time or money to take myself.” Zack glanced at the view. “Honestly, this is already the best date I’ve ever been on, and it just started. Remind me to thank you properly later.”

“If that kiss wasn’t the thank-you, then I can’t wait for the real thing. I’ve never been here before, so this is exciting for me too.”

“Oh wow,” Zack exclaimed, “you’re going to love it. It’s the best place ever. I’m going to show you such a good time.”

John smiled. “I’m sure you will.”

Zack grabbed him by the hand and tugged him toward the double pier. The closer they got, the stronger the smell of salt water and fried food grew. Zack’s mouth watered even though they’d just eaten. When they reached the entrance, they passed beneath an arching gateway sign that read Santa Monica Yacht Harbor: Sport Fishing, Boating, Cafes.

“Man, that brings back memories,” Zack said wistfully.

John nudged him with his elbow. “Do you want to go to Pacific Park or walk down to the end of the pier?”

“Oh, we’re going to the theme park for sure.” Zack grinned. “I have a mighty need to play some whack-a-mole. But later, when the sun is setting, we can walk down the pier. That’s romantic, right?”

John snickered. “Yeah, I think it is. So, whack-a-mole?”

“What can I say? I like to hit things with mallets.”

The two bought wristbands to the park—which Zack benevolently allowed John to pay for—and spent the better part of two hours playing every game they could find. Zack beat John at whack-a-mole, but John surprised him by winning the basketball toss by five baskets.

“Shit,” Zack said after. “I never would have guessed you were such a good shot.”

“I was on the team in high school,” John said with a wink.

Zack moaned. “Please describe the uniforms to me later when we’re not in public.”

“Oh, I can do better than that,” John said. “I still have mine somewhere.”